Eastern Canada: Highlights of the Maritimes & Newfoundland

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Visit the town of Antigonish, home to St. Francis Xavier University and the oldest continuous highland games in North America. With deep Gaelic roots, this town is full of history and charm. Enjoy lunch on your own and some time to explore the area before hiking along either the Fairmont Ridge trail or Pomquet Acadian trail. The Fairmont Ridge Hiking trails are up to 10km and have a 332m elevation gain. The trails overlook the harbour, and wind through old-growth forest and past brooks. The Pomquet Acadian trail starts along a prominent headland and offers great views of St. George’s Bay and Pomquet Beach. You will begin atop a drumlin and wind through inland forests with 100-year-old pine trees before ending along the beach.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle as the group transfers between Baddeck and Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Please note that the drive will be about 5 hours total. The drive to the national park will take about an hour and then the group will spend additional time driving along the scenic Cabot Trail. The drive back to the hotel will be about two hours.

Cape Breton National Park is home a large portion of the scenic Cabot Trail. Considered one of the most beautiful drives in Canada, this 185-mile (298 km) loop road on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia is known for its dramatic coastal views, rugged landscapes, and access to the national park. Your visit here will consist of driving and exploring by foot on trails along this route. Encounter incredible views of the landscape, wildlife, and relaxing beaches. Hike along the Skyline Trailhead, sit down for a picnic lunch at McIntosh Brook Falls or Pleasant Bay Beach. And cap off the visit with a stop to Dingwall Beach or Green Cove for a short walk by the water. Hiking Information: Skyline Trail: 6.5km out and back with 290m elevation gain or 8.2km loop with 405m elevation gain. Duration: 2-3hrs. McIntosh Brook: (possible walk to waterfall depending on lunch location) 1.7km. Duration: 30 minutes

Pay a short visit to the small collection of villages that make up Ingonish. Located on the water and close to the national park, this is the perfect location to enjoy the outdoors. While your visit here may be short, you will have time to get a feel for the peaceful, laid-back atmosphere during the summer months while admiring views of the Atlantic.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Spend some time exploring the quaint waterfront town of Pictou today. Discover some of its rich history as the "Birthplace of New Scotland" and enjoy walks along the coastline. Choose to visit different attractions in town like, The Hector Heritage Quay or simply relax by the water amid the daily small town life.

Enjoy a short 10-15 minute transfer to the ferry terminal from Pictou.

Settle in and enjoy a ferry ride from Nova Scotia to Prince Edward Island.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Take advantage of a full free day on Prince Edward Island to partake in optional activities available from Charlottetown. From bike rides to kayaking and historic walking tours, there are plenty of options to choose from to make your day here as busy or laid-back as you choose.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. You will be traveling over the curved, 12.9 km (8 mile) long Confederation Bridge. Stop in Moncton along the way to Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park.

The massive tides of the Bay of Fundy have been working their magic and sculpting a masterpiece in Hopewell Cape, New Brunswick for thousands of years. Enjoy a visit to where over twenty free-standing sea stacks are sprinkled along 2km of rugged shoreline. Experience these icons on a walk down on the beach during low tide to witness these massive rocks from a different angle of the normally covered ocean floor. Have lunch here among the beautiful coastal scenery before traveling onwards.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Witness the world's most dramatic tides in Fundy National Park. Located on the un-ceded territory of the Indigenous Mi'gmaq people on New Brunswick's east coast, the tides normally cover the area with 12m of water, or about a 4-story building. During your visit the group will venture inland on a trail that winds through Acadian forest up to a cliff overlook of the landscape below. Distance: 2-4km.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Spend the morning exploring Saint John, Canada's first incorporated city on your own.

Discover the local history of the Wolastoqi and Mi’kmaq communities on a guided Indigenous Walk and storytelling experience. The group will walk along the harbour and the River Wolastoq. Past by archaeological sites and become more knowledgeable about stewardship of the earth and how we combine respect of the present while celebrating past traditions.

Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Enjoy a full day of free time to experience the area of New Brunswick. Opt to tour historical sites, walk around downtown, or book a whale watching cruise a bit further away. There's plenty to see and do, and the chance to make your day as busy or relaxing as you'd like.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Enjoy a walking tour alongside a guide and learn about the history of Lunenburg. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of a planned British Colonial settlement in North America. Walk the original layout of the town and discover the architectural heritage of the 18th and 19th-century buildings. Your guide will offer facts and a unique insider's perspective on this quaint town.

Spend a few free hours in the town. Grab some lunch on your own at a cool local spot, and choose to visit the Fisheries Museum nearby.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Enjoy the resort property's amenities tonight in Western Shore. Choose to swim in the indoor or outdoor pool, try some water activities like kayaking or paddle boarding, and enjoy live music later in the evening.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Enjoy a visit and walk about Peggy’s Cove, a must-see location in Nova Scotia known for its beautiful coastal scenery and the iconic Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse. Walk around the charming fishing village with a long history that is still actively engaged in the trade. Spend time at the lighthouse perched on granite rocks that have been sculpted by the ocean, and which happens to be one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Become acquainted with Halifax on a brief orientation tour with your CEO. Pass by the harbour and on the main streets downtown as you gain insight into the maritime history and natural beautiful of this waterfront city with the world's longest downtown boardwalk.

Spend a few hours of free time in Halifax. Opt to visit a museum, walk around on the waterfront boardwalk, or enjoy the natural beauty of Point Pleasant Park.

Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Get out and explore St. John's— the oldest city in North America, boasting historic charm and modern culture— on your own. Check out the vibrant arts scene, the diverse food options, and the friendly local community.

Enjoy a visit and walk around Signal Hill in St. John's. This national historic site is famous for its role in military history and communication breakthroughs (the first wireless transatlantic signal was received here in 1901). Walk around the area and take in the beautiful views of the city and Atlantic Ocean. Check out the iconic Cabot Tower and savour the rugged coastline. There may be time for a quick stop at the visitor centre.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Spend a few hours this afternoon exploring the quaint town of Brigus. The well-kept, old-style architecture, stone walls, lush green gardens, and winding narrow lanes are reflective of the English, Irish, and Welsh heritage evident here. The group will walk through the charming town, visit an old tunnel in the rocky cliffs by the harbour, learn about the maritime history here, and enjoy free time for lunch. There will also be time for an optional visit to the Hawthorne Cottage National Historic Site, or to walk part of the Lighthouse trail if you choose. Brigus is famous for its annual blueberry festival and so trying one of the blueberry pastries (like cobbler, crisp, or pie) is a must.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Trinity, Newfoundland is known for its well-preserved heritage architecture, vibrant arts scene, and for being one of the province's oldest settlements. It was once a major trading centre for salt fish and boasts a beautiful harbour. Follow your CEO on an orientation walk of the small town and get a sense of the history as you go. Then, spend time on your own. Find your way around town by the old-fashioned street signage in calligraphy, watch a blacksmith at work, or visit the Cooperage to learn about barrel making. Later in the evening, choose to join your CEO for a sunset walk on Gun Hill to see golden hour colours over Fisher Cove. The walk to get to the top takes between 20 and 30 minutes. Or you could choose to book a show at the Rising Tide Theatre. This local establishment located in the heart of Trinity has been producing culturally rich and locally rooted performances for over 40 years.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Enjoy a walk on a narrow, well worn path for about 5 minutes to reach the local puffin viewing site. This is one of the best accessible locations in North America to view this beautiful bird. Between May and September the colourful auks occupy a section of the land at the end of a rocky outcrop. Observe, take photos, and simply enjoy the wildlife.

There will be an hour of free time in Elliston. Choose a local spot for lunch on your own and opt to visit the John C. Crosbie Sealers Interpretation Centre featuring a captivating experience and opportunity to learn the historic and cultural context of sealing in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Spend the afternoon on a hike with your CEO on one of the trails along the Bonavista Peninsula. Your CEO will choose the trail based on weather and overall group ability. Options could be the Cape Shore trail to the lighthouse (3.5km along the coastline), Murphy's Cove Loop (7.7km coastal loop through abandoned community), and Skerwind Trail (5.3km coastal loop with wildlife viewing opportunities).

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. There will a brief stop en route to Gander in order to break up the drive.

Take advantage of a free afternoon to explore Twillingate on your own. Optional activities you can choose from are hiking, a whale watching cruise, or visiting shops, museums, and galleries downtown. Twillingate is known for its icebergs. Nestled on the rugged coast of Notre Dame Bay, Twillingate offers incredible views of these ancient ice giants as they journey south through Iceberg Alley. Whether you're interested in dramatic scenery, exciting wildlife, or local culture, Twillingate promises to be a noteworthy destination.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

King's Point is special for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Known for the Alexander Murray Hiking Trail with 2,200 stairs and unforgettable views and the local art scene. During free time here choose to hike along the trail with your CEO and enjoy a packed lunch along the way. This will be 8km and 350m in elevation gain. Or choose to stay in town and visit a local restaurant for lunch. Then walk on your own to places like the King's Point Pottery Gallery or Heritage House.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts diverse landscapes from fjords and mountains to forests and coastlines. The area also offers a unique and visible example of continental drift and plate tectonics. Begin the visit today with the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse. Walk along the trail with views of the water and visit the exhibit.

Set off on a boat tour on Western Brook Pond, a landlocked fjord with waterfalls, billion year old cliffs, and plenty of chances to see wildlife. Throughout the two hour boat tour, the group will learn more about the geological and historical features of this gorgeous place. You will walk from the parking lot to the dock which is about 3km and takes 45 minutes along a gravel and fairly flat trail.

Spend free time strolling along the sidewalks of the Rocky Harbour waterfront. Opt to check out the Town Square, artisans' shops, restaurants, and cafes. Listen to the sounds of the ocean and take in a fiery summer sunset (weather permitting). Choose to find a cute local spot for dinner and simply enjoy being outside. Rocky Harbour is a charming fishing village and a gateway to the stunning Gros Morne National Park and is a great place for experiencing traditional Newfoundland culture.

Travel to Norris Point and board the boat shuttle to Woody Point. This 15-minute ride across the beautiful Bonne Bay saves an hour drive and offers stunning views to those on the boat. Take in the views of the Tablelands, Gros Morne Mountains, and small communities dotting the shoreline. Disembark in the quaint fishing village of Woody Point. Upon arrival there will be about 45 minutes of free time to explore the town on foot.

Start the CEO-led hike from the trailhead near Woody Point. Follow an old roadbed as it weaves along the base of the mountain. Search for plants, unusual rocks, and panoramic views. Finish the trail in the glacially carved Winter House Brook Canyon. The total distance is about 4km roundtrip, there will be about 88m of elevation gain and it will take 1-2 hours.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Enjoy time on your own in Deer Lake. The town is easily walkable on foot. Maybe choose to visit the local brewery or Newfoundland Insectarium.

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.